Hiatal Hernia Repair in Port Charlotte, FL

A hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the opening in the diaphragm (the hiatus) into the chest. Small hiatal hernias are common and may cause no symptoms. Larger ones, including paraesophageal hernias, can cause reflux, trouble swallowing or chest pressure after meals. We care for patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood and across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.

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Symptoms of a hiatal hernia

Heartburn, regurgitation or a sour taste
Chest pressure or feeling full quickly after eating
Trouble swallowing
Shortness of breath after meals with larger hernias
Unexplained anemia

When to see a surgeon

See a surgeon if reflux or swallowing symptoms continue despite medicine, or if testing shows a large or paraesophageal hernia. Chest pain should always be checked for heart causes first. Severe chest or upper abdominal pain with vomiting or inability to swallow is an emergency.

If you need emergency care, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

What to expect

Testing often includes an upper endoscopy (EGD) and imaging, and sometimes esophageal function or acid testing.

Repair is usually laparoscopic: the stomach is returned to the abdomen, the opening in the diaphragm is tightened, and an anti-reflux procedure is often added.

Some patients go home the same day and some stay overnight, depending on the repair.

Recovery

You start with liquids and soft foods and slowly return to a regular diet as swallowing feels normal. Mild tightness when swallowing is common early on. Your surgeon will tell you when to resume lifting and exercise.

Who performs this at Charlotte Harbor Surgical

Matthew Tufts M.D., F.A.C.S., Vincent Brown M.D., and Charles Campbell D.O. perform this procedure. Consultations and follow-up visits take place at our Port Charlotte office.

Frequently asked questions

Does every hiatal hernia need surgery?

No. Small hiatal hernias are common and often cause no symptoms. Surgery is considered when a hernia is large, causes reflux or other symptoms that do not respond to medicine, or leads to complications.

Is a hiatal hernia the same as GERD?

No, but they are related. A hiatal hernia can weaken the barrier that keeps stomach acid out of the esophagus, so many people with a hiatal hernia also have reflux (GERD).

What tests will I need before surgery?

Testing often includes an upper endoscopy (EGD) and imaging such as a barium swallow or CT scan. Some patients also need esophageal function or acid (pH) testing.

How is a hiatal hernia repaired?

Repair is usually done laparoscopically through small incisions. The stomach is returned to the abdomen, the opening in the diaphragm is tightened, and an anti-reflux procedure is often added.

Will I need a special diet after surgery?

Yes, for a short time. Most patients start with liquids and soft foods and slowly return to a regular diet as swallowing feels normal. Your care team will give you written diet instructions.

Schedule a consultation

Call our Port Charlotte office at 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980, or request an appointment online.

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Port Charlotte Location: 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980

Call (941) 391-5102 · Mon–Thu 7:30 am–4:00 pm, Fri 7:30 am–12:00 pm. If you need urgent care and you have decided to go to an emergency room please use AdventHealth Port Charlotte.

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